More reports that the next Prius won't start off using LiIon batteries
Click on the photo for a high-res gallery of the Toyota Hybrid-X concept
A couple of weeks after reports first came out of Japan that the next generation Toyota Prius would stick with nickel metal hydride batteries instead of switching to lithium ion; the Wall Street Journal finally noticed. The tendency of lithium ion batteries to run hot seems to be Toyota's main concern, especially in light of their recent quality issues such as the Tundra engine failures. The lithium batteries have the potential to substantially improve mileage and emissions, an advantage which will be sacrificed for quality and safety concerns.
[Source: The Car Connection via Hugg, thanks to Linton for the tip]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
GreyFlcn 12:55PM (6/14/2007)
Then they should use Lithiun Polymer batteries.
Those can get amazingly hot before you have problems.
Reply
Joseph 4:26PM (6/14/2007)
Sounds like Tesla Motors may have another customer!
Perhaps Toyota will borrow some of the technology from Tesla and incorporate it into their own battery cooling system?
Reply
Hun Boon 7:31PM (6/14/2007)
Toyota would always choose reliability over performance, but I'm surprised that their huge team of talented engineers aren't able to find a solution to overheating problems. What a pity, looks like we've got to wait for the 4th generation Prius then..
Hun Boon
http://starbamboo.wordpress.com
Reply
George Krpan 5:10PM (6/15/2007)
They need to hook up with Altair although I rather see Altair hook up with GM.
What a beautiful car! Hybrid or not it would be a game changer. If the other makers don't have something like this waiting in the wings they will be in more trouble than they're already in.
Reply